Rule of thumb for determining Optimum Altitude (non graphical)
Is there a quick planning rule of thumb for determining optimum altitude for jet transport (discounting advantages of Jetstream rides, tailwinds,weather avoidance, and temperature considerations)..just a simle rule that can factor weight and average climb wind components.
I aslo invite critique for the following simplistic quick and dirty approach:
Given the sector distance you would wanna cover 1/3 in climb, a third in cruise and step climbs, and a third in descents (assuming Constant Angle/Speed profile descents or similar) .Divide distace by 3 and multiply by 3 for the cruise Altitude and check if weight limits...any further tips will be appreciated.